Ripon’s fourth evening meeting of the summer takes place next Monday (July 7), when racing begins at 6-40 p.m. and to celebrate the Yorkshire ‘Grand Depart’ of the Tour de France, the first 100 racegoers wearing a yellow jersey or clothing (T-shirt, top, blouse skirt etc.) will be admitted free of charge into the Paddock Enclosure. Also, all official ‘Tour Makers’ will gain free admittance if wearing their official clothing. The gates open at 4-40 p.m. and the offer extends to 6-00 p.m. 

The evening’s opening race is The Happy 80th Birthday John Oglanby Maiden Fillies’ Stakes, a contest for juvenile fillies named in honour of John Oglanby’s special birthday. John is the father of Jane Hutchinson, Ripon’s Commercial Manager.

Three-year-old sprinters take part The Armstrong Memorial Handicap Stakes and The Our Local Heroes Foundation Handicap Stakes – both races contested over six furlongs. It’s the 58th running of the Armstrong Memorial race (usually held in early August) and is supported by the Armstrong Family, one of the country’s most famous racing dynasties, which includes legendary Yorkshire trainers, the late Gerald and Sam Armstrong. Colin Armstrong, who father was Gerald Armstrong, is a director of the Ripon Race Company. 

There’s musical entertainment on Monday evening, courtesy of The Fanfare Brass Band, while Ripon’s permanent giant screen will enable racegoers to follow all of the action, including racing from the other evening meeting at Windsor.